Microsoft OneDrive is a cloud-based storage system that offers a seamless way to store, access and share files from any devices. In order to understand OneDrive better, it is crucial to know the meaning of OneDrive's status icon and how they impact your daily work.
Icon on your notification area
Blue Cloud icon
If the blue cloud icon has no overlays, it means that OneDrive is running normally, and all your files are up-to-date. All the changes you make to your files will be automatically synced to the cloud. You will be able to access files across different devices.
If the blue cloud icon has no overlays, it means that OneDrive is running normally, and all your files are up-to-date. All the changes you make to your files will be automatically synced to the cloud. You will be able to access files across different devices.Red circle with white cross
This is a error icon. Click the OneDrive icon in the notification area to learn more about the problem. If this appears, there is an issue with syncing some of the files.
This is a error icon. Click the OneDrive icon in the notification area to learn more about the problem. If this appears, there is an issue with syncing some of the files.Gray OneDrive icon
A greyed-out OneDrive icon in the taskbar indicates that OneDrive is not connecting or signed in. This may happen if you have logged out of your account or there might be issue with your internet. To sign in, click the greyed-out OneDrive icon in the notification area. A sign-in window should appear. Enter your email account and password to sign in.OneDrive paused icon
The paused symbol over the OneDrive icon denotes that your OneDrive sync is paused. You can resume syncing by clicking on OneDrive icon in the notification area, select More/Settings and then Resume syncing.OneDrive icon with sync pending arrows
The circular arrows over the OneDrive notification icons signify that sync is in progress. This includes when you are uploading files, or OneDrive is syncing new files from the cloud to your PC.Status icon next to your work file
White cloud on a blue background
A blue cloud icon next to your OneDrive files or folders indicates that the file is only available online. Online-only files don’t take up space on your computer. It will be downloaded to your device
A blue cloud icon next to your OneDrive files or folders indicates that the file is only available online. Online-only files don’t take up space on your computer. It will be downloaded to your deviceSolid green circle with the white check mark
When you open an online-only file, it downloads to your device and becomes a locally available file. You can open a locally available file anytime, even without Internet access.
When you open an online-only file, it downloads to your device and becomes a locally available file. You can open a locally available file anytime, even without Internet access.Green tick icons
This denotes that your file or folder is available locally on your device, and it is in sync with the version in the cloud.A red circle with a white cross
A red circle with a white cross means that a file or folder cannot be synced. You'll see this in File Explorer or on the OneDrive notification area icons.